MID Cheshire MP Stephen O'Brien has pledged his full support to protesters at November's public inquiry into the controversial Minosus waste application.

As well as airing his constituents' concerns, Mr O'Brien may put forward his own case against the planning application to turn Winsford Rock Salt Mine into an underground chemical waste dump.

Mr O'Brien said: 'I think this application raises very serious issues in terms of the environment and possible health consequences, both for the surrounding communities in Moulton, Davenham and North Winsford, and those wider afield.'

He added: 'On behalf of the many constituents who have raised serious concerns about this application, I will be keen to make sure their views are fully aired at these proceedings.

'I have also raised the issue of how the Government's National Waste Strategy has affected the overall context of conditions in which this application has to be considered. The Government published it in the middle of last year and it didn't refer to any waste mines, so I have been looking into that in some detail.'

Protesters from Residents Against Mine Pollution (RAMP) fear the toxic waste landfill site will bring environmental pollution and the risk of disaster.

They also argue it will turn a quiet semi-rural area into one of 24-hour noise and light pollution, traffic hold-ups and pollution, all propelling a downward spiral in property prices.

They are urging concerned residents to make out written statements to: Jane Coslett, Programme Office, Goldsmith House, Hamilton Place, Chester, by Thursday, October 4.

If you wish to appear at the public inquiry, you must state on your written statement the times and dates you can attend.